Northern Illinois police officer faces sex assault charges

Updated 12:02 pm, Thursday, February 8, 2018

Winnebago County State's Attorney Joe Bruscato announced the charges Thursday against 35-year-old Cherry Valley officer Jason Personette. Prosecutors say the Winnebago County Sheriff's Office started investigating allegations in January that Personette was involved in a sexual relationship with a child under the age of 18. Officials say detectives determined the relationship occurred between August and November of 2017.

Personette is scheduled to appear in court Thursday afternoon. Court records don't list an attorney representing him who could comment on his behalf. Personette doesn't have a listed telephone number to pursue comment. Cherry Valley Police Chief Robert Swank says Personette is on paid administrative leave. The department had no further comment.